I've had a small fish bone stuck in my throat since yesterday afternoon, and it's been causing some irritation, especially when I try to sleep. I've been coughing and doing everything I can think of to get it out, but it's just not budging. Any ideas on what I should do?

Dr Mubarak Parveez B

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 2+ Yrs

Consult Now

If you have a fish bone stuck in your throat:

Immediate Actions

1. Remain calm.
2. Avoid swallowing.
3. Try to cough gently to dislodge the bone.

Home Remedies

1. Sip warm water or tea to soothe the throat.
2. Gargle with salt water (12 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces water).
3. Use throat lozenges or sprays for relief.
4. Apply heat to the throat with a warm compress.

Medical Attention

1. Consult a doctor if:

• Irritation persists or worsens.
• Swallowing becomes difficult.
• Fever or pain develops.
• Bone remains stuck after 24 hours.

1. Visit an emergency room if:

• Severe difficulty breathing.
• Bone causes severe pain.

Professional Removal

1. If the bone doesn't dislodge, consider:

• Endoscopy (medical procedure to visualize the throat).
• Professional removal by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.

Prevention

1. Avoid eating fish with sharp bones.
2. Cut fish into small pieces before eating.

Answered 04/07/2025